Evonik Supports Science Education At Illini Bluffs School District     

Grant From Global Innovation Leader Marks Company's New Corporate Identity  

MAPLETON, Ill., December 4, 2007 – Evonik Industries, whose chemical operations were formally known as Degussa and Goldschmidt Chemical Corporation, today presented the Illini Bluffs School District with a $500 community grant to support the District's science education programs.  

Dr. Reinhold Brand, President of Evonik Goldschmidt Corporation, which is part of the Evonik Industries chemicals group, said the company made the donation to introduce its new identity.

Evonik employees have a deep commitment to science education, Brand noted. “By supporting our educational institutions,” he continued, “we are investing in the development of new scientific discoveries, future research and development researchers, and global economic advancement.”  

Joe Stoner, principal of the Illini Bluffs Middle School, said Evonik Goldschmidt Corporation’s donation was “very exciting” for students.  

“It’s beneficial anytime we receive a donation from a business, because it goes directly to benefit the students,” Stoner said. “We’re very proud of our science program at Illini Bluffs Middle School and Evonik’s generosity will only help to make it better. Anytime a company decides to get involved with the school district it is a win-win situation for all.”  

The $500 grant is Evonik’s way of celebrating with its neighbors in Mapleton but is also a continuation of the company-wide commitment to science education, said Brand. “Learning about the wonders of science can serve as a great inspiration for students, who may go on to be the chemists, researchers, or engineers of tomorrow,” he added.

Company information

Evonik Industries AG is the creative industrial group which operates in three highly profitable, promising business areas: Chemicals, Energy and Real Estate. Evonik is a global leader in specialty chemicals, an expert in power generation from hard coal and renewable energies, and one of the largest private residential real estate companies in Germany. Our strengths are creativity, specialization, continuous self-renewal, and reliability.  

Evonik Industries is active in over 100 countries around the world. In fiscal 2006 around 43,000 employees generated sales of €14.8 billion and operating profit (EBIT) of over €1.2 billion. Evonik plans to enter the capital market in the first half of 2008.  

Disclaimer

In so far as forecasts or expectations are expressed in this press release and where our forward-looking statements concern the future, these forecasts, expectations and statements may involve known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results or developments may vary, depending on changes in the operating environment. Evonik Industries AG assumes no obligation to update the forecasts, expectations or statements contained in this release.  

For more information, contact:

Mike Sheridan

Evonik Degussa Corporation

Tel: 973-541-8812

e-mail: mike.sheridan@degussa.com